The Mines and Mining Development Ministry has issued a fervent plea to small-scale and artisanal miners operating within the Great Dyke region. With the onset of the rainy season, the Ministry strongly emphasizes the paramount importance of prioritizing safety above all else.
Urging caution and prudence, especially in underground operations, Deputy Minister Polite Kambamura highlighted the inherent risks exacerbated by the wet conditions. This proactive approach aims to prevent avoidable accidents and potential loss of life.
The significance of safety measures in this sector cannot be overstated. Last month Mines Minister Zhemu Soda disclosed that small-scale miners significantly bolstered Zimbabwe’s gold production, contributing 13.8 tonnes of gold to Fidelity from January to September of the current year. This contribution constituted approximately 61 percent of the total gold production during that period, showcasing the sector’s vital role in the nation’s economy.
Despite these achievements, the small-scale mining sector faces safety challenges. A recent survey conducted by the Chamber of Mines of Zimbabwe (CoMZ) revealed a concerning pattern. Between January and September 2023, there were 110 reported fatalities in the country’s mines, indicating an increase from the 106 accidents documented during the same period the previous year.
This alarming trend underscores the immediate need for heightened safety protocols to mitigate risks and safeguard the well-being of miners.
